James Marion Deaton

James Marion Deaton, 90, of Oakwood passed away peacefully on January 3, 2020.

Mr. Deaton was born to the late Hubert A, and Reba Deaton in Winder, Georgia. He is preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Verla; son, Perry; brothers, Bobby Joe (Helen), Nathaniel (Helen), Gene (Nora), Verlyn and beloved dog of 18 years, Jack.

James held several jobs during his life but found the most joy as a tour bus driver. Mr. Deaton could give directions to anywhere in the continental United States, as well as Nova Scotia, and the best way to get there. His recall was not limited to interstates-if he could not remember the road name, he could describe where to turn, James loved to meet new people; as a driver this provided opportunity and time to get to know his riders.

Mr. Deaton was a resident of Oakwood for over thirty years, where he frequently dined at Loretta’s Country Kitchen on Mundy Mill Road, especially after the passing of his wife. Be it with the breakfast crowd or dinner, James knew the day of the week by the menu posted on Loretta’s marquee. Regardless of the restaurant, Mr. Deaton would strike up conversations with anyone who would listen, and on several occasions a perfect stranger would treat him to his meal.

Mr. Deaton is survived by his daughter, Kay Handran (Keith) of Gainesville; daughter in law, Andrea Deaton of Canton; sisters, Corine and Peggy Deaton of Winder and Carolyn Holliday of Winder; brother, Bill (Nette) Deaton of Snellville; sister in law, Levender Deaton  of Monroe; 5 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2020 at Memorial Park Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, in the chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home. Burial will follow the service at Memorial Park Cemetery.

The family wishes to give their sincerest thanks to his neighbors who showered James with attention, the staff of Loretta’s who always greeted him by name, the strangers who purchased a meal for him out of the goodness of their hearts, and everyone who leant an ear to an elderly man who loved to chat. Thank you for you care, kindness, and generosity.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The United States Veterans Association, the American Heart Association, the Humane Society, or the charity of choice.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Road, Gainesville, GA  30504 is in charge of arrangements.

Send online condolences to www.memorialparkfuneralhomes.com.